Aussies thrash Canada, advance to WC final

Australia thrashed Canada 58-6 to advance to the Women's Rugby League World Cup final but only after suffering a worrying second-half lapse.

As expected, the reigning champions advanced past the vastly inexperienced Ravens in the semi-final in Sydney on Sunday to set up a clash with New Zealand in Saturday's tournament decider.

The Jillaroos took their foot off the pedal in the second half with a number of fundamental mistakes and penalties, allowing Canada to score a surprise try.

"We weren't as good as what we could have been in the second half," coach Brad Donald said.

"We've been really good during the tournament. It's something we've got a week to work on and make sure we're right for the Kiwis."

After Ali Brigginshaw opened the scoring in just the second minute, it was largely one-way traffic for the Australians.

The Australian five-eighth bookended the first-half with two similar tries - on both occasions Canada fullback Irene Patrinos allowed the ball to bounce and Brigginshaw pounced to score when she had no right.

After beating the Ravens 88-0 in their pool clash just four days earlier, the Jillaroos were never expected to be troubled however were at times wasteful and will not be able to afford similar lapses against the Kiwi Ferns.